The 21 Best LGBTQ+ Teen Movies You Should Already Have Seen By Now! 🏳️‍🌈

Sometimes you can get a little tired of the same old ‘boy meets girl’ stories. Luckily, the next time you feel like watching something exciting, you could choose from one of the many amazing LGBTQ+ teen movies that have been made over the years.

LGBTQ+ representation in media has come a long way, and one genre that has seen significant growth in recent years is LGBT teen movies. These films offer a powerful and authentic portrayal of the experiences and challenges faced by LGBTQ+ teenagers as they navigate their identities, relationships, and societal expectations.

From heartwarming coming-of-age stories to poignant dramas, LGBT teen movies have become an important avenue for queer youth to see themselves represented onscreen and for audiences to gain empathy and understanding.

This article will explore some of the best LGBTQ+ teen movies that have captivated audiences with their engaging storytelling, diverse characters, and powerful messages of love, self-acceptance, and resilience. Whether you identify as LGBTQ+ or simply appreciate compelling cinema, these films are sure to leave a lasting impact and inspire conversations about inclusivity, equality, and the power of representation in media.

So, get some popcorn, a glass of wine and a blanket, and snuggle in to watch! We can’t promise all happy endings, but we can promise a rich and varied range of LGBT teen movies.

Booksmart (2019)

Booksmart, directed by Olivia Wilde, is a refreshing and vibrant coming-of-age comedy that brings a unique perspective to the genre. Wilde, known for her acting career, makes an impressive directorial debut with this film, showcasing her keen eye for storytelling and capturing the essence of teenage life with authenticity and humor.

The film stars Kaitlyn Dever and Beanie Feldstein as Amy and Molly, two high-achieving best friends who realize on the eve of their high school graduation that they have missed out on the fun and wild experiences of high school. Determined to make up for lost time, they embark on an epic adventure to attend a wild party, encountering a series of hilarious and unexpected misadventures along the way.

What sets Booksmart apart is its fresh and diverse representation of characters. The film features an openly lesbian protagonist, Amy, whose journey of self-discovery and acceptance is portrayed with sensitivity and realism. The LGBTQ+ representation in the film is empowering and heartwarming, highlighting the importance of inclusivity and acceptance.

The film stands out for its sharp writing, energetic direction, and relatable characters. It tackles important themes such as friendship, self-discovery, and the complexities of growing up in a fun and refreshing way. It’s a film that celebrates the power of female friendship and embraces diversity, including LGBTQ+ representation, in a way that feels authentic and progressive.

Booksmart is a must-watch film that is both hilarious and heartwarming. With its outstanding performances, engaging story, and meaningful representation, it is a standout coming-of-age comedy that resonates with audiences of all backgrounds. It’s a celebration of youth, friendship, and inclusivity that is sure to leave a lasting impression. Highly recommended for anyone who appreciates a well-crafted and socially relevant comedy.

The Curiosity Of Chance (2006)

The Curiosity of Chance, by Russell P. Marleau, takes place in Europe in the 1980s. It tells the story of Chance Marquis (Tad Hilgenbrink) a flamboyant gay teenager who has just been transferred to a new school, where he is soon met by the hatred and bigotry of homophobic students.

Yet not everything is bad: through the school newspaper he meets an introverted photographer and an aggressive tennis player who will become his friends. What’s more, Chance also meets his neighbor, a boy obsessed with sports, who will want to be his friend and perhaps something more, if he can overcome societal pressures. The film sees Chance meeting a group of drag queens who will encourage him to participate in a beginner’s show, but trouble arises when a photo of his performance is distributed throughout the school, causing Chance to become a laughing stock. It will be then that the young man will have to make a decision and face his fears in order to accept himself.

The movie wouldn’t be the same without the brilliant performance by Tad Hilgenbrink, who knocks it out of the park with his performance as Chance. The character, while eccentric, will manage to get through to the most closed of watchers with his honesty and charm. It’s a shame that this little movie hasn’t had much attention from the general public, since it’s one of the best LGBT teen movies ever. A perfect watch for any young man having to deal with the challenge of coming out of the closet.

Call Me by Your Name (2017)

Call Me by Your Name is a breathtaking and poignant coming-of-age drama directed by Luca Guadagnino, a renowned Italian filmmaker known for his visually stunning and emotionally resonant films. Guadagnino has a reputation for his masterful storytelling and unique ability to capture the nuances of human emotions, which is evident in this film and in his other works, such as I Am Love and A Bigger Splash.

The film features a stellar cast, with standout performances by Timothée Chalamet and Armie Hammer in the lead roles. Chalamet delivers a mesmerizing performance as Elio, a 17-year-old boy who falls in love with Oliver, played by Hammer, a 24-year-old graduate student who visits Elio’s family’s Italian villa for the summer. Their on-screen chemistry is palpable, capturing the intensity and vulnerability of first love in a deeply moving way.

One of the aspects that makes Call Me by Your Name so special is its authentic and sensitive portrayal of a same-sex relationship. The film portrays Elio and Oliver’s love story with tenderness and without sensationalism, and it beautifully captures the nuances of their emotions, struggles, and desires. It’s a landmark film in its portrayal of LGBTQ+ characters and relationships on screen, and it has been widely praised for its representation and inclusivity.

Call Me by Your Name is a visually stunning, emotionally resonant, and beautifully acted film that explores the complexities of first love and sexual awakening. Guadagnino’s direction, along with the outstanding performances by Chalamet and Hammer, brings Aciman’s novel to life in an evocative and heart-wrenching way.

The film’s LGBTQ+ representation is groundbreaking and adds to its significance in cinema history. Highly recommended for anyone who appreciates heartfelt storytelling and exquisite filmmaking.

Closet Monster (2015)

Closet Monster, by Stephen Dunn, is a small Canadian film that tells the story of a boy who leaves his life behind trying to escape the monsters behind him. But, as you may imagine, the hurt he suffered as a child is stuck with him and he will have to face his inner monsters if he ever wants to be happy. While not very known in the mainstream, his film has had much praise by queer communities, as well as critics, even winning Best Canadian Film at the 2015 Toronto Film Festival.

The protagonist, Connor Jessup, is the fundamental axis of this film. Played by Oscar Madly, this fascinating character manages to capture our attention and reel us into his intriguing inner world. He manages to make the role his own, molds it at his whim, and captivates us with his interpretative strength. But he’s not alone: his friends, Aliocha Schneider and Sofia Banzhaf, represent the two personalities that live inside him. The first is the sexually liberated side, the one that does not have to ask for forgiveness, the one that can live as he wants.

The latter is the one who longs to leave her home, discover herself, create her own personality, and move forward in life. This small film tells its story in a refreshing and mind-bending way.

Love, Simon (2018)

Love, Simon is a heartwarming coming-of-age film directed by Greg Berlanti, known for his work in television as the creator of popular shows like Dawson’s Creek and Arrow. Love, Simon is based on the novel Simon vs. the Homo Sapiens Agenda by Becky Albertalli and marks Berlanti’s first foray into directing a feature film. Berlanti’s skillful direction brings out the story’s emotional depth, creating a relatable and poignant tale that resonates with audiences of all backgrounds.

The film stars Nick Robinson in the titular role of Simon Spier, a high school student who is struggling to come to terms with his sexual identity while navigating the challenges of friendships, family, and first love. The cast also includes Katherine Langford, Alexandra Shipp, and Jennifer Garner, who deliver exceptional performances, bringing authenticity and vulnerability to their characters.

The plot revolves around Simon’s journey of self-acceptance as a gay teenager, who is not ready to come out to his family and friends. When an anonymous classmate publicly reveals that he is gay, Simon starts an online relationship with him, while also trying to protect his secret. The film beautifully captures the complexities of the coming-out experience, including the fear of rejection and the internal struggle to be true to oneself.

Love, Simon is a touching and resonant film that explores the universal themes of self-acceptance, friendship, and love through the lens of a gay teenager’s coming-out journey. Greg Berlanti’s skilled direction, along with exceptional performances from the cast, and its authentic portrayal of LGBTQ+ characters make it a must-watch for anyone seeking a heartfelt and relatable story. Love, Simon is a significant film that promotes representation and inclusivity, and is highly recommended for audiences of all backgrounds.

The Edge Of Seventeen (2017)

The Edge of Seventeen is the feature debut of director Kelly Fremon Craig. The film offers a fun, intelligent, and touching youth story that, although it does not come to revolutionize the already known formula of coming of age stories, gives it a twist full of freshness thanks to the incredible performance of its main actress Hailee Steinfeld.

The film starts with Nadine (Steinfield) running desperately through the halls of the high school until she reaches the classroom where her teacher, Mr. Bruner (played by the great Woody Harrelson), can be found. She confesses that she is determined to commit suicide. Her teacher takes the news with sarcasm and irony and manages to reassure the stunned protagonist. From there, the film goes back in time to learn details of Nadine’s childhood, her relationship with her parents and her brother, her friendship with her only friend Krista, and Nadine’s constant insecurity ever since she was a girl.

It is a story with a lot of heart that delves into themes that are a little darker or more serious than what is normally presented in this type of film. The film explores issues such as the loss of a loved one, depression, and lack of self-esteem in a fresh way. The Edge of Seventeen is a youthful journey of self-discovery that will make you laugh as well as remind you of the worst parts of being a teenager. It has all the necessary ingredients to become one of the best LGBT teen movies of all time while still representing the voice of the current generation.

Show Me Love (1998)

Show Me Love (original title: Fucking Åmål) is a Swedish coming-of-age film directed by Lukas Moodysson and released in 1998. Moodysson, a prominent Swedish filmmaker, is known for his unique storytelling style and ability to capture the raw emotions of his characters. Show Me Love was his breakthrough film and garnered critical acclaim for its honest portrayal of teenage life and its exploration of LGBT themes.

The film follows the lives of two teenage girls, Agnes and Elin, who live in the small town of Åmål, Sweden. Agnes is a loner who harbors a crush on Elin, the popular girl in school. On the other hand, Elin is struggling with her identity and desires to break free from the constraints of small-town life. As the two girls’ paths cross, a tender and awkward romance blossoms, challenging societal norms and their own fears.

The film also stands out for its LGBT representation. The film portrays Agnes and Elin’s relationship with tenderness and authenticity, shedding light on the challenges faced by LGBTQ+ individuals in conservative communities. The film tackles themes of isolation, bullying, and discrimination, while also showing the importance of self-acceptance and finding love in unexpected places.

Show Me Love is a poignant and heartfelt film that resonates with audiences of all ages. Its honest portrayal of teenage life, tender exploration of first love, and meaningful representation of LGBTQ+ characters make it a must-watch. Lukas Moodysson’s skillful direction and outstanding performances by the young cast bring depth and authenticity to the story. Highly recommended for anyone who appreciates heartfelt coming-of-age stories and nuanced LGBTQ+ representation in cinema.

Lost And Delirious (2001)

Lost And Delirious, by Léa Pool, tells the story of three teenagers who study at a Catholic girls boarding school for the children of wealthy families. The main focus of the film is directed toward Mary Bradford (Mischa Barton), whose nickname is “Mouse”.

She arrives at this new school filled with doubt, sad about the people she was forced to leave behind (and who left her behind): she feels like her father is abandoning her for her new wife. However, the school isn’t so unpleasant. On the contrary, she is received quite well by her new roommates, the complicated and rebellious Paulie (Piper Perabo), and the beautiful and sympathetic Tory (Jessica Pare). Yet quite quickly Mouse realizes that something strange is happening: seeing the way Paulie and Tory treat each other, she realizes that they are more than friends.

The film sees Mouse witnessing their love affair and being there for them as they face the social pressures against them having a lesbian relationship. The relationship between Paulie and Tory goes further, which surprises Mouse at first but ends up becoming a witness and silent accomplice of this strange relationship. As the movie goes on, the love affair grows in intensity and in complications. After a particularly hard fight, Paulie is venting while Mouse stays by her side, wondering about herself and trying to understand what is happening and how it affects her.

It’s a film about the obstacles faced by any young woman who tries to open up to the decision to be a lesbian and how it can be painful not to have real support to face heartbreak and feeling unloved in a period as difficult as adolescence.

But I’m a Cheerleader (1999)

But I’m a Cheerleader is a delightful and bold comedy film directed by Jamie Babbit, who is known for her work in queer cinema. Babbit is a renowned filmmaker who has been a prominent advocate for LGBTQ+ rights and has made significant contributions to the representation of LGBTQ+ characters in film and television. Her unique perspective shines through in But I’m a Cheerleader, making it a standout in the genre.

The plot follows Megan, a high school cheerleader, who is sent to a gay conversion therapy camp when her parents suspect her of being a lesbian. The film hilariously satirizes the damaging practice of conversion therapy while also addressing the complexities of sexual identity and acceptance. Megan’s journey to self-discovery is portrayed with humor and heart, as she meets other queer individuals at the camp who challenge the heteronormative ideals imposed upon them.

What makes But I’m a Cheerleader so special is its unapologetic queer representation. It defies harmful stereotypes and depicts LGBTQ+ characters as complex, multidimensional individuals with agency and dignity. The film also explores themes of self-acceptance, found family, and the importance of being true to oneself, which resonate with audiences of all sexual orientations.

But I’m a Cheerleader is a standout film that offers a unique perspective on LGBTQ+ issues. Jamie Babbit’s direction, coupled with the stellar performances from the cast, make it a must-watch for anyone seeking authentic and inclusive representation in cinema.

With its boldness, humor, and heart, But I’m a Cheerleader is a timeless gem that continues to be celebrated as a cult classic in the LGBTQ+ community and beyond. Highly recommended for anyone looking for a meaningful, funny, and heartfelt film that challenges societal norms and promotes LGBTQ+ visibility.

Handsome Devil (2016)

Handsome Devil, by John Butler, tells the story of a teenager who stands out amongst the others while living in an Irish boarding school obsessed with rugby. In that school, which seems to be populated only by athletes, there is a student, Ned (), who does not fit that description of a teenage athlete. Victim of bullying and homophobic attacks, he has become closed off in order to protect himself from everyone else.

One day, a boy named Conor arrives at the school. While he’s one of the athletes, he doesn’t carry any prejudice with him. As he approaches Ned, he learns that Conor is also going through the same thing as Ned, in that they both are dealing with being gay. While Ned is clear about who he is, Conor has to learn to live as a homosexual in an environment, sports, which is not exactly easy for someone like him. Handsome Devil is a charming movie and one of the better romantic teen movies in recent years.

The Half of It (2020)

The Half of It, directed by Alice Wu, is a heartfelt and charming coming-of-age film that was released in 2020. Alice Wu, known for her work in the indie film Saving Face, brings her unique perspective as an openly queer Asian-American filmmaker to this poignant story.

The film revolves around Ellie Chu, played by Leah Lewis, a high school student who makes money by writing essays for her classmates. When Paul, played by Daniel Diemer, enlists Ellie’s help to write love letters to win over his crush, Aster, played by Alexxis Lemire, a complicated love triangle emerges.

As Ellie and Aster begin exchanging letters, Ellie finds herself falling for Aster, who is also the object of Paul’s affection. The film’s plot is a refreshing take on the classic Cyrano de Bergerac story, exploring themes of love, identity, and self-acceptance.

The performances in The Half of It are remarkable. Leah Lewis brings depth and vulnerability to her role as Ellie, capturing the character’s internal struggles with grace and authenticity. Daniel Diemer shines as Paul, bringing endearing comedic relief to the film, and Alexxis Lemire portrays Aster with a tender vulnerability that draws empathy from the audience.

The Half of It is a beautifully crafted film that offers a fresh perspective on love, identity, and the complexities of being a queer teenager. It is a heartwarming and poignant story that resonates with audiences, regardless of sexual orientation or identity.

Alice Wu’s direction, combined with powerful performances and meaningful LGBTQ+ representation, makes this film a must-watch. The Half of It should be watched by anyone who appreciates authentic storytelling and wants to see a heartfelt LGBTQ+ coming-of-age story on screen.

Geography Club (2013)

Geography Club, by Gary and Edmund Entin, is a comedy film based on the best-selling book of the same name by Brent Hartinger. While the film has been compared to The Breakfast Club, it bears to say that it approaches its subject in a much more modern way, featuring one of the most realistic depictions of gay teenagers in a comedy film ever. The story shows how a school can be broken apart by homophobia, dividing its students between those who accept the LGBT community and those who don’t. The film deals with touchy subjects but manages to do so without ever losing its humor.

The titular geography club is composed of several queer teens who try to find their place in the world: Russell is still dating girls while having a secret relationship with football quarterback Kevin, who will do anything to keep his football teammates from finding out about him; Min and Therese tell everyone that they are very good friends, but they are much more than that; And then there’s Ike, who can’t figure out who he is or who he wants to be.

Finding the truth too hard to hide, they all decide to form the Geography Club, thinking no one else in their right mind would want to join. However, their secrets may soon be discovered and they may have to face the decision to reveal who they really are.

Moonlight (2016)

Moonlight is a cinematic masterpiece directed by Barry Jenkins that has received widespread acclaim for its poignant storytelling, powerful performances, and groundbreaking representation of the LGBTQ+ community. Jenkins, known for his exceptional talent in capturing the complexity of human emotions on screen, delivers a visually stunning and emotionally resonant film that has left an indelible mark on contemporary cinema.

The film features a stellar cast of actors, including Mahershala Ali, Naomie Harris, Trevante Rhodes, and Janelle Monáe, who deliver outstanding performances that bring the characters to life. The film follows the life of Chiron, a young African American man growing up in Miami, as he navigates his identity, sexuality, and relationships at different stages of his life, from childhood to adulthood.

The film is divided into three chapters, each capturing a pivotal moment in Chiron’s life, and Jenkins’ deft direction weaves them together seamlessly, creating a moving and emotionally resonant narrative.

One of the most significant aspects of Moonlight is its groundbreaking representation of the LGBTQ+ community, particularly the experiences of a gay black man. The film delves into the struggles and challenges faced by Chiron as he grapples with his sexual identity in a predominantly heteronormative and homophobic environment. Jenkins portrays these experiences with sensitivity and authenticity, shedding light on the intersections of race, masculinity, and sexuality, and challenging societal norms and stereotypes.

What sets Moonlight apart is its raw and emotional storytelling that captures the universal human experience of self-discovery, love, and acceptance. The film’s exquisite cinematography, evocative score, and profound performances create a deeply moving and resonant viewing experience. Moonlight is a groundbreaking film that pushes boundaries and challenges societal norms, and its LGBTQ+ representation is a significant milestone in cinema.

G.B.F. (2013)

G.B.F. is an independent comedy film directed by Darren Stein. All hell breaks loose at a suburban high school when the three most popular girls fight over who gets to have a G.B.F. (a gay best friend).

The film tells the story of Tanner (Michel J. Willett) and Brent (Paul Iacono), two closeted best friends. While Brent craves attention, Tanner would rather stay unseen and comfortable. Despite his friend’s reservations, Brent will go along with his master plan: he believes that by publicly coming out, he could become the new “accessory” to one of the popular girls.

But things don’t go as planned and it’s Tanner who comes out of the closet because of a mistake by Brent. So, the three most popular girls in school begin a social war in order to figure out who will get to have the gay best friend. Meanwhile, Tanner will have to choose between popularity and the friends he’s leaving behind.

Pariah (2011)

Pariah is a powerful and poignant coming-of-age drama directed by Dee Rees, who is known for her bold and authentic storytelling. Rees, a queer African American filmmaker, has made significant contributions to the representation of marginalized communities in cinema, and Pariah is a prime example of her talent and vision.

The film features a talented cast, including Adepero Oduye as Alike, a 17-year-old African American lesbian navigating her identity, family, and community in Brooklyn, New York. Kim Wayans gives a standout performance as Alike’s strict and religious mother, grappling with her daughter’s sexuality. The performances are raw, authentic, and emotionally charged, drawing the audience into the characters’ struggles and triumphs.

Pariah tells a deeply personal and authentic story about self-discovery, acceptance, and the complexities of identity. Alike’s journey to embrace her sexuality and find her voice is depicted with nuance and sensitivity, capturing the challenges and joys of coming out in a conservative and homophobic environment. The film also delves into the intersectionality of race, class, and gender, adding depth and complexity to the narrative.

What makes Pariah so special is its unflinching honesty and representation of LGBTQ+ characters of color. Rees portrays the LGBTQ+ community in a realistic and compassionate light, shedding light on the struggles and discrimination faced by queer individuals of color, while also celebrating their resilience and humanity.

Pariah is a groundbreaking film that challenges stereotypes and provides a much-needed representation of queer people of color in cinema. It’s a thought-provoking and emotionally resonant film that leaves a lasting impact. I highly recommend Pariah for its outstanding performances, compelling storytelling, and important representation of LGBTQ+ individuals of color. It’s a must-watch for anyone seeking powerful and authentic LGBTQ+ cinema.

The Way He Looks [Hoje Eu Quero Voltar Sozinho] (2014)

The Way He Looks is the feature debut of Brazilian filmmaker Daniel Ribeiro. Based on the plot of this previous project (a short film by the same name), it tells a naturalistic, beautiful, and subtle story about love and diversity among the youth of Brazil.

Leo (Ghillerme Lobo) is a handsome, energetic, and optimistic teenage boy who likes to spend his time with his best friend Giovanna (Tess Amorim). The biggest obstacle he has encountered throughout his life is his blindness, which despite his difficulties does not prevent him from doing the things he loves most: traveling, meeting new people, or having fun. There is one thing he hasn’t done: he still hasn’t kissed anyone.

Leo’s life is turned upside down when a new student named Gabriel (Fábio Audi) arrives in his class, and they are assigned a paper about Spartan society that they must do in pairs. This arrival gives Leo the chance to meet someone new: due to certain social prejudices, he did not have, apart from Giovanna, too many friends at school. From the beginning, the story injects the viewer with a legion of new emotions, humor, and discoveries typical of the passage from childhood to adulthood, from social interaction to the deepest and most personal fantasies.

It’s a touching story that manages to capture what’s unique and what’s beautiful about this time in everyone’s lives.

The Incredibly True Adventures of Two Girls in Love (1995)

The Incredibly True Adventures of Two Girls in Love is a heartwarming romantic comedy directed by Maria Maggenti, a talented filmmaker known for her contributions to LGBTQ cinema. Released in 1995, the film showcases Maggenti’s unique perspective on queer love and relationships, and her skillful direction brings the story to life in a captivating way.

The film stars Laurel Holloman as Randy Dean, a high school tomboy who unexpectedly falls in love with a popular, feminine girl named Evie Roy, played by Nicole Ari Parker. The plot follows their unlikely romance as they navigate the challenges of their differing backgrounds, social expectations, and the complexities of their own emotions. The chemistry between Holloman and Parker is palpable, and their performances are authentic and compelling, drawing the audience into their journey.

What sets The Incredibly True Adventures of Two Girls in Love apart is its genuine representation of LGBTQ characters. Maggenti portrays Randy and Evie as individuals with their own unique personalities and struggles, rather than reducing them to stereotypes. The film also addresses issues such as homophobia, discrimination, and self-acceptance with sensitivity and nuance, making it a pioneering work in the portrayal of lesbian relationships onscreen.

Maggenti’s direction is thoughtful and poignant, capturing the tender moments of first love as well as the challenges faced by LGBTQ individuals. Her ability to balance humor and drama in the film is commendable, creating a heartfelt and enjoyable viewing experience.

The Incredibly True Adventures of Two Girls in Love is a must-watch for anyone seeking authentic LGBTQ representation in film. With its heartfelt story, excellent performances, and skilled direction, this film remains a landmark in queer cinema. Highly recommended for those who appreciate heartwarming romantic comedies that push boundaries and celebrate love in all its forms.

Beach Rats (2017)

The story of Beach Rats goes as follows: Frankie (Harris Dickinson) lives in suburban Brooklyn with his mother (Kate Hodge) and his younger sister (Nicole Flyus). His father is in the final stages of cancer, but he does not seem to care. Frankie spends the night in his room entering gay dating chats and one of the few things he prides himself on is taking care of his statuesque body.

His group of friends is quite pathetic and his activities include some robberies to raise the money needed for joints and pills. In the middle of the beach season in Coney Island, he meets Simone (Madeline Weinstein), an attractive and overwhelming girl with whom he will stumble into an affective relationship, but will continue with short-lived dates with men much more mature than him.

The second film by Eliza Hittman, Beach Rats won her the award for Best Direction at the Sundance Film Festival, among many others. The film is a sensitive look at the contradictions of a 19-year-old in search of his identity. It’s a disturbing, uncomfortable, and fascinating film about intimate contradictions, existential crisis, lack of communication, desires, and the search for sexual identity in a world many times hostile. A beautiful film that doesn’t talk down to its viewer.

Summer of 85 [Été 85] (2020)

Summer of 85, by François Ozon, is a romance film set in Le Tréport, a small French town on the Norman coast.

At the end of the course Alexis (Félix Lefebvre), a teenager who is almost 16 years old, has to decide whether to continue studying or to look for a job. Meanwhile, by chance, he meets 18-year-old David (Benjamin Voisin). The two of them quickly become friends, but just as quickly they realize that their feelings call for something more. Yet, from the very beginning, we know this story can’t end well. From the first minute we are told that David has died and Alexis is declaring in a court of law about his death. As he tells his story, the film flashes back to the beautiful countryside and to the story described earlier.

Only at the very end will the viewer know what exactly happened. It’s a nostalgic and painful journey to the memory of those fleeting loves that are extinguished with the same intensity with which they sprout, but that is a fundamental part of our formation and individual growth thanks to the mark they have left in the depths of our hearts. Summer of 85 is a beautiful film that tells a youthful romance with the aesthetics and melodies of the eighties.

Filled with nostalgia, this is one of the best LGBT teen movies that is sure to put a tear in your eye.

Being 17 [Quand on a 17 ans] (2016)

The story of Being 17, by André Techiné,begins with Damien (Kacey Mottet Klein), the son of a soldier who lives in a barracks in the south-west of France with his mother Marianne (Sandrine Kiberlain), a doctor, while his father is abroad on a military mission. Damien is gay, and at school, he has to deal with bullying from Thomas (Corentin Fila) every day. However, when Thomas’s mother falls ill, and Marianne decides to take the boy into her house, the violence and aversion they feel for each other will turn living together into a problem that is difficult to solve.

It’s truly outstanding how, while Techiné is now over seventy years old, he managed to tell one of the most compelling stories about teenage romance ever to be put to film. Being 17 is a great portrait of the processes of accepting one’s own sexuality and becoming an adult. An essential step in life that Téchiné deals with is marvelous simplicity and tact.

It truly is one of the best gay ten films made from the heart and for the heart.

Maurice (1987)

Maurice is a beautifully crafted film directed by James Ivory, known for his impeccable skill in adapting literary classics to the big screen. Ivory and his producing partner Ismail Merchant formed the acclaimed filmmaking duo, Merchant Ivory Productions, and their collaboration has resulted in numerous critically acclaimed films.

Based on the novel of the same name by E.M. Forster, Maurice is a period drama set in early 20th century England. It follows the story of Maurice Hall, portrayed by James Wilby, a young man coming to terms with his sexuality in a society that criminalized homosexuality. The film also features outstanding performances from Hugh Grant as Clive Durham, Maurice’s first love interest, and Rupert Graves as Alec Scudder, Maurice’s gamekeeper and forbidden love interest.

One of the film’s strengths is its poignant portrayal of the challenges faced by LGBTQ+ individuals during a time when homosexuality was taboo. Ivory’s sensitive direction and the screenplay by Kit Hesketh-Harvey treat the characters and their struggles with authenticity and empathy, exploring the complexities of sexual identity, societal norms, and the risks of pursuing forbidden love.

This is a landmark film in LGBTQ+ cinema, not only for its accurate depiction of queer relationships but also for its unapologetic exploration of the emotional and psychological toll that societal oppression can have on individuals. It is a brave and groundbreaking film that resonates with audiences to this day.

Maurice is a powerful and evocative film that showcases the talents of director James Ivory and the exceptional performances of its cast. Its poignant portrayal of LGBTQ+ characters and their struggles in a repressive society makes it a significant film in the representation of queer stories on screen. I highly recommend Maurice to anyone who appreciates thought-provoking cinema and compelling LGBTQ+ narratives.